Head of M&A Deal Execution

About AkzoNobel

Since 1792, we’ve been supplying the innovative paints and coatings that help to color people’s lives and protect what matters most. Our world class portfolio of brands – including Dulux, International, Sikkens and Interpon – is trusted by customers around the globe. We’re active in more than 150 countries and use our expertise to sustain and enhance the fabric of everyday life. Because we believe every surface is an opportunity. It’s what you’d expect from a pioneering and long-established paints company that’s dedicated to providing sustainable solutions and preserving the best of what we have today – while creating an even better tomorrow. Let’s paint the future together.

Job Purpose

The Head of M&A Deal Execution is responsible for managing (pre-deal) transactional and operational activities. The role involves end-to-end ownership of M&A Project Management process to deliver efficient deal execution for (bolt-on) acquisitions, divestments, and joint ventures. Includes leading and managing the cross-functional M&A Process (e.g., business case and cost synergy development, assessment of valuation with M&A finance controller, negotiations, collaborating with Legal on documentation, and management of internal and external stakeholders (e.g., advisors)). The individual plays a key role in enabling high-quality M&A execution by using strong collaboration and influence management skills across business and functional teams. This role also requires strong personal communication skills and involves high-exposure communication at executive level.

Responsibilities

• Define and lead the end-to-end M&A process for bolt-on acquisitions, divestments, or joint ventures (typical deal sizes EUR 50 – 500m Enterprise value)
• Effectively execute high-impact M&A projects across business units and corporate functions
• Lead and manage end-to-end M&A project management processes, including target screening, due diligence coordination, business case / cost synergy development, assessment of valuation in combination with M&A Finance controller, legal documents, and internal stakeholder alignment.
• Manage external advisors as required during the transaction processes (investment bankers, law firms, financial Due diligence/Tax, other consultants)
• Utilize influence management skills to effectively manage internal stakeholders (Legal, Finance and other Functional and business stakeholders) during the transaction process
• Identify and resolve critical alignment and operational issues during deal execution
• Communicate effectively with executive stakeholders, including delivery to ExCo through presentations, meetings, updates etc.
• Handle sensitive information with strict confidentiality
• Provide direction to junior team members, actively coach and support their development

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Business, Economics, Finance, Engineering, Science or a related field
• 8 – 12 years of direct experience leading full M&A project execution for deal sizes ranging between EUR 50 – 400m Enterprise value (e.g., top-tier consultancy, or investment banking or Corporate Development with M&A experience)
• Proven experience and track record leading and delivering bolt-on M&A transactions, Divestments, or Joint Ventures end-to-end (must provide 3-5 year Deal sheet summarizing completed M&A transactions in addition to CV)
• Strong plus, if previous commercial business experience to support M&A deal execution experience
• Strong conceptual and structured thinking skills; able to break down complex issues into actionable insights
• Excellent stakeholder management, influence management, and communication skills, including with (top) executive-level audiences
• High level of discretion and professional integrity
• Familiarity with legal aspects of M&A and experience in participating in clean teams
• Demonstrated ability to guide and coach junior colleagues
• Fluent in English (written and spoken)

At AkzoNobel we are highly committed to ensuring an inclusive and respectful workplace where all employees can be their best self. We strive to embrace diversity in a context of tolerance. Our talent acquisition process plays an integral part in this journey, as setting the foundations for a diverse environment. For this reason we train and educate on the implications of our Unconscious Bias in order for our TA and hiring managers to be mindful of them and take corrective actions when applicable. In our organization, all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age or disability.